Introduction to Music Technology (300-0-3)

Instructors

Carlos Angel Zarate

Meeting Info

RCMA 1-180: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This course will provide students with fundamental skills and knowledge for facing the basic technology-related challenges in their careers. We will cover principles of acoustics and sound perception, as well as digital audio theory. Students will learn to capture, edit, and mix sound using a digital audio workstation (DAW) and will explore some entry-level concepts of synthesis.

Registration Requirements

Registration requires department consent. Priority is given to majors in the Bienen School of Music. To be added to the wait-list for registration, click or copy/paste this link and fill out the application form: https://www.music.northwestern.edu/course-forms. You may apply for a place in any or all Winter 2026 sections of MUS TECH 300 with a single response at that link, but wait-list applications from previous quarters (for MUS TECH 259 or 300) do not carry over.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the class, students will be able to capture, edit, and mix sound in a DAW and will have a solid understanding of the concepts involved in these activities. They will also have a basic understanding of a few synthesis techniques and will be able to use them in their music.

Teaching Method

The class will mix lecture-style sessions with discussion of readings and lab time.

Evaluation Method

Students will be evaluated based on their participation in class, a number of quizzes, and the completion of a midterm and a final project.

Class Materials (Required)

No materials required for purchase. Assigned readings will be provided by the instructor and students will use open-source software, more specifically Reaper and the free version of Max.